Red Cross blood drive scheduled at library

Those who give blood between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., June 9, at 351 W. Sixth St. in Lorain, will receive a ticket to a Cedar Fair theme park of their choice while supplies last, according to a news release from the Lorain Public Library System.

The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that temporarily were paused in response to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Those who give blood between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., June 9, at 351 W. Sixth St. in Lorain, will receive a ticket to a Cedar Fair theme park of their choice while supplies last, according to a news release from the Lorain Public Library System.

Due to COVID-19, the “valid-thru” date on all summer full-value tickets has been extended through the 2021 park season, the release said.

Appointments to donate can be made at RedCrossBlood.org using sponsor code “CedarPoint,” or call 1-800-733-2767.

Walk-ins will not be accepted, and face coverings are required. If a donor does not have one, Red Cross will provide a mask, according to the release.

Each Red Cross blood drive follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings – have been implemented to ensure the health of all those in attendance, the release said.

“Blood donors have played a vital role in the lives of patients who have needed lifesaving transfusions during this pandemic, and patients continue to depend on donors each and every day,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of Red Cross Blood Services. “The Red Cross appreciates the support of those who rolled up a sleeve to give in recent months, but the need doesn’t stop.

“We need the public’s help to avoid another blood shortage this summer.”

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION